Paddle a KayakO‘ahu

Paddling a KAYAK is a good way to leave the world behind and work off some stress. The world moves in slow motion from a seat in a kayak, and all a paddler has to do is concentrate on the rhythm of paddles dipping in and out of the water, squint lazily into the sun for flashing schools of fish, and keep an eye out for the hazy outline of an island floating on the horizon.

KAILUA BEACH was made for paddling: The shore is within paddling distance of the tiny MOKULUA ISLANDS. Called “THE MOKES” by locals, these islands are designated bird sanctuaries that harbor a host of intriguing seabirds, including wedge-tailed shearwaters and brown boobies, and

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green sea turtles.

Both guided and self-guided kayaking tours are available. Since visitors generally don’t check kayaks with their luggage, it’s worth noting that kayaks—and even skilled guides, if you don’t want to explore alone—are available to those who want to paddle.

In addition to Kailua Beach, some of the most popular paddling spots around the island are found at KANE‘OHE BAY, WAIMEA VALLEY, KUALOA BEACH PARK, KAHANA BAY, KAHANA STREAM, WAIMANALO BEACH PARK and WAIKIKI BEACH.